Online Training vs. Classroom Training: Which one to choose for the summer?
The evolution of modern web technologies has fostered a new generation of online training methodologies. These programs are either meant to supplement classroom learning, or in some cases, even be an alternative for it. In this day and age, which one should you go for?
Each has its own set of varied advantages. Ultimately, it’s upon the learner to decide what suits him best. Before you make that choice, make sure you know the pros and cons of both.
Classroom Training:
The value of an instructor-led training is unquestionable. For those who enjoy live, interactive and dynamic classrooms are the ones who gain the most out of classroom training programs. There are no communication barriers, and an inflow of ideas from fellow students and instructors make it the most sought-after mode of learning. There is a sense of healthy competition when we choose to study with our peers, and this helps us to gauge ourselves better.
A classroom training program provides a multi-sensory mode of learning and direct contact to your mentor for immediate doubt solving. It’s the framework we have followed so far in schools and colleges, and hence it gives us a familiar learning environment. It provides a structured and well-timed curriculum. The constant mentoring of the instructor also tells us whether we are headed for the right direction. Deviating from this mode of learning may take some people out of their comfort zone. Sometimes, it’s best to stick with what works!
On the other hand, some of us may function best when we choose to dwell on the subject individually and at our own pace. In classroom based learning, one has to comply with the pace of the instructor. For some of us, we may find that we function best without the formal classroom environment. Being fairly structured, it requires being on time and following a time-table, usually not allowing for unforeseen circumstances with may prevent an individual student from taking the class. This inflexibility in learning schedules is perhaps the greatest drawback of conventional classroom learning.
Online Training:
Aided by modern technology, the number of online trainings has risen incredibly fast over the last few years. The biggest advantage of this mode of learning is the flexibility it provides, both in terms of time and space. Forget about having to travel to far-off places just for a one-hour class. You get to learn from the warmth and irreplaceable comfort of your home, coupled with flexible timings. This format allows you to work around your other commitment like studies, work, friends, college extra-curriculars, family and other significant things. Your home becomes your classroom, rather any place where you can afford to have internet.
Most of the online courses are laced with informative tutorials so that the focus is mainly individualistic. State-of-the art online technology has enabled hands-on practice features where students can immediately apply the theory they’ve just learnt. This is especially useful if you are looking to learn a new programming language or related course.
For students who are inhibited in asking a doubt/question in front of a class of 50, online learning may prove to be a boon. No more shying away from doubts, you can ask your query as soon as it pops into your head with the help of live chat/support forums etc, what we call “interactive learning”. At the same time, remember, you are learning how to manage your own time and make your own schedule of learning while at the same time learning cool new technology! Isn’t that fitting!
The online courses provide hands-on labs and exercises which serve well for plenty of practice. They have been catalysts in taking technology to the farther off areas, where learning has been traditionally difficult. They are especially economical, since online learning has to be for the masses and students alike. That’s yet another advantage of online learning.
Self-policing and discipline hold paramount importance in this mode of learning. Remember to plan a schedule, and stick to it. Students sometimes feel that online courses are less rigorous and require lesser time, when in fact, it is quite the contrary. It requires more self-discipline, time management and motivation to complete work.
Make sure you analyze yourself before choosing a mode of learning for this summer. There’s no denying the fact that online learning is going to be future of internet technology. Choose what’s best for you and get the most out of it! :-).
And if you feel Online Training is what seals the deal for you, Internshala is offering Online Summer Training Programs in Web Development, Hacking, Robotics, Core Java and more. Check them out on Internshala VTC
Image Credit: www.learncomputer.com
